What Belt is Jocko Willink?

by Adrian Davis April 06, 2025

Jocko Willink is widely known as a retired Navy SEAL, leadership expert, author, and podcast host. However, beyond his military accomplishments, Willink has earned a formidable reputation in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). For those curious about his BJJ rank and training background, this article provides an in-depth look.

Jocko Willink’s Background in Martial Arts

Before delving into his BJJ belt rank, it's essential to understand Willink's diverse martial arts experience:

Military Combatives: As a Navy SEAL, Willink was trained in hand-to-hand combat techniques that incorporate elements of BJJ, Muay Thai, and boxing.
Wrestling: His background in wrestling laid a strong foundation for grappling and positional control.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Willink has dedicated decades to BJJ, developing expertise in both practical and competitive applications.

What BJJ Belt Does Jocko Willink Hold?

Jocko Willink is a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Dean Lister — a highly respected grappler and ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) champion. Willink's training under Lister, known for his leg lock game and overall grappling prowess, has significantly influenced his BJJ style.

The Journey to Black Belt

Started Training: Willink began training in the late 1990s while still actively serving as a Navy SEAL.
Mentorship Under Dean Lister: Lister's approach to grappling emphasizes controlling opponents, aggressive submissions, and leg locks — skills that Willink has honed and applied.
Dedication: Despite a demanding schedule, Willink has maintained a rigorous training regimen, demonstrating his commitment to the art.

Jocko Willink’s Training Philosophy

Willink’s approach to BJJ aligns closely with his philosophies on discipline and leadership:

Embrace the Grind: Willink advocates for consistent, disciplined training, even when motivation wanes.
Focus on Basics: He emphasizes mastering fundamentals before attempting complex techniques.
Mental Toughness: Applying BJJ lessons to life, Willink believes that overcoming challenges on the mat builds resilience.

How Jocko’s BJJ Experience Influences His Work

Willink’s expertise in BJJ extends beyond the mats and influences his public persona:

Leadership Coaching: He uses BJJ metaphors to explain concepts of leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving.
Podcast and Books: On the Jocko Podcast, he discusses the mental and physical benefits of BJJ.
Self-Defense and Preparedness: Willink views BJJ as a practical, effective system for self-defense, particularly for military and law enforcement professionals.

Comparison to Other Celebrity Black Belts

Jocko Willink’s dedication to BJJ is on par with other notable practitioners:

Joe Rogan: Black belt under Jean Jacques Machado and Eddie Bravo.
Tom Hardy: Actively competes and holds a blue belt.
Henry Cavill: Trains BJJ recreationally and has expressed an interest in belt progression.

Why Does Jocko Willink’s Black Belt Matter?

Earning a black belt under a grappler of Dean Lister's caliber is a testament to Willink’s skill, perseverance, and dedication. It also reflects his commitment to mastering techniques applicable in high-stakes, real-world scenarios.

Conclusion: The Black Belt Mindset

Jocko Willink's black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu represents not just technical expertise but a philosophy of discipline, mental toughness, and lifelong learning. His journey exemplifies the values he promotes — relentless effort, humility, and a constant drive for self-improvement.